Heads up: Test of emergency alert system happening today (Wed Nov 19)

Release:

A test of the national Alert Ready emergency alerting system will take place on Wednesday, November 19, at 1:55 p.m. This will be the second regularly scheduled test this year.

The alert will be sent to compatible mobile devices, TV and radio. It will be a broadcast-intrusive alert, meaning it will interrupt device use and programming, and will be identified as a test. People will not need to take any action.

This alert will also be sent through the NS Alert app. People who have downloaded the app and are connected to an LTE or 5G network will receive two alerts because Alert Ready and NS Alert both work over those network types. App users who are connected to a 3G network or Wi-Fi will receive only one alert because Alert Ready only reaches devices on LTE or 5G.

People can provide feedback on the test message through a survey at: https://peasi.com/emergency-alert-test-survey.html

Quick Facts:
– the national Alert Ready system issues alerts to the public when emergencies such as fires, natural disasters, national security threats and biological threats occur
– the Department of Emergency Management sends test alerts through Alert Ready twice a year
– the NS Alert app was launched in August to improve alert coverage in areas of the province where the more modern LTE and 5G networks are not available
– people can download the NS Alert app for free on the Apple App store or Google Play store

Additional Resources:
Alert Ready system: https://www.alertready.ca/

Alert Ready alert types: https://www.alertready.ca/alert-types/

NS Alert app: https://novascotia.ca/nova-scotia-emergency-alert-app/